Wednesday, 24 May 2017

Trip to Sikkim & Darjeeling 2016

Pre-Planning:

From last two years I was planning for this trip, but now
this time I have decided to fulfill my dream.

First we decided to visit during Diwali Vacation (Nov) but then we thought if we visit in Diwali we face heavy rush & due to peak season rates are also high.

Then we reschedule in first week of Oct. & according to that I done all necessary bookings online like train tickets, hotel booking etc. as this was my first visit so to avoid inconvenience I booked my hotels online, but after reaching I realized that if we go directly to hotel we can get better deal on the spot.

Journey Began: Day 1 & 2 (Train)

Train Route

Our Train is from LTT (Lokmanya Tilak Terminus) via Kamakhya
AC Express 12519 till NJP (New Jalpai Guri) which is closest Railway station
for Sikkim or Darjeeling Both. It took around 36 hours to reach. We supposed to
reach NJP by 9:00 PM but our train was delayed by 2 hrs. so we reached by 11:00
PM. Our first destination was Gangtok, from NJP to Gangtok is approx. 150 Kms.
But its took 4.5 hrs. to reach due to mountain region and bed road conditions.

NJP Station & Taxi Stand

There are many taxis you can find outside railway station, if you come during day time you can find many taxis with SK no. which came here for drop, which will take you at chipper rates. But now its 11:30 PM, few people suggest us not to travel night & stay at Siliguri Town, but we decide to leave for Gangtok as our room is already booked there.

After small bargain with taxi walas we fixed one Tata sumo on sharing basis for 300 per person Private taxis is much costly during this time. But driver told us he will leave only after he gets all seats full (8 seats) we are 3 only, so we have to wait for others, after having snacks and coffee we saw he arrange more 4 passengers, it’s almost 12:00 AM my kid was very sleepy so I offer driver to take 1 seats extra charges from me and start the journey.

NJP to Gangtok by road

The driver was very fast and experienced & reached Gangtok by
4:30 AM. Fortunately, we had already informed in hotel about our delayed arrival
so they allotted us room immediately, we just check in & on the bed next
moment.

Day 3

We woke up by 9:30 AM, feeling fresh, relaxed & excited
to explore new place, our Hotel is actually far from main city.

View from our room

Our plan for
day is first apply for Nathula Pass permit for next day, then start our full
day sightseeing tour. After getting ready we came to reception to complete our
check-in formalities, there we met the owner of hotel, so we told him about our
plan, he immediately said that he will arrange everything for us from getting
permit & hire local taxi. (to get Nathula Pass Permit you need to carry
your valid ID & 2 Photos of each member) we submit our document &
photos to him & left for Sightseeing tour.

with our Alto Taxi

Taxi (Alto) charged Rs.2500/- for a full day sightseeing.

Bhakthang Falls

Our first point is Bhakthang Falls, here you can see nice water fall & few
stalls of traditional costumes on hire for Rs.50/- each, a small zip line is
also there.

in traditional costumes

We took some photos in traditional costumes and moved ahead.

Tashi View Point

Tashi View point is our next point, we are hungry now, so we
decide to have some breakfast here, there was small hotel opposite to point we
ordered some paratha, Onion Bhajiya, Bread Omlette & Coffee. Quantity was
good so our stomach was full.

Viewpoints are very common in Gangtok, this are points on
height from where you can get aerial view of town, (at all point you need to pay parking charges extra which is Rs.10 to 25).

Aerial view of Gangtok

Tashi view point is also one
of them, after a small trek we reached on top, one common thing is Costume
stalls at every point. After clicking some photos, we moved Ahead.Our next point is Lahsa falls

Lahsa falls

(one thing I want to mention
here is as this is hill station you can see waterfalls everywhere so don’t
spent much time or miss any point) again this fall is also on road touch with a
small café type hotel.

Plant Conservatory

Then we visited the Plant Conservatory (Entry Rs.10) a
garden type place with various types of plants, poly house, Glass House and a
water fall on top, but this place is not well maintained & no one for Information.

Glass house but closed

Poly House

You need to burn some extra calories here. We click some pix n
proceed.

way to Ganesh Tok

Now we are at Ganesh Tok, it’s also a view point with Lord Ganpati Temple on top, after small trek,

Ganesh Mandir at top

View of town

taking darshan of Ganesha we took some more Photos of Gangtok City from view point, and moved ahead.

Hanuman Tok is our next point, this place is on hill top,
you need to pass many loops to reach here.

Road towards Hanuman tok

This temple is managed by Indian
Army. Area is very neat n clean and very well maintained.

Way to Main temple & view Point

Very nice view of
Himalayan Mountains & town as well, temple is covered with clouds, inside
temple there is soldier instead of Pujari (priest).

Entire temple was covered by clouds

Hanuman Mandir

View from Point

After taking darshan &
photos of surrounding we moved ahead.

It was a nice sunny day but climate was chilled so we are
enjoying a lot. But time is running very fast & so many places is left to
see. Our next stop is Banjakhri Falls which is situated at lower level from
town & road is very bed.

Road to Falls

It took around 45 mins. To reach there. (entry
Rs.50/-PP + parking), its huge area with traditional Sikkim’s architecture,

this is energy conservation park too but condition is too bed.

Empty pool

Out of order rides

Solar Panels

way to falls

Banjakhri Falls

Just waterfall
is superb. It’s biggest fall we visited. As time is very less we immediately
moved ahead toward our next point.Again after 50 mins. of ride, our next stop is Gangtok Rope
way.

Gangtok Rope way.

It’s almost 5:30 in evening and our driver told us that rope way is being
close by 5:30PM, so rushed to ticket counter, fortunately we got tickets in
last ride. (cost Adults Rs.110/-Child Rs.70/- below 6 yrs.)

Gangtok Rope way Ticket

inside cable car

cable car will take
you through great view of main city and back. Total 10 to 15 mins of ride, but
it’s worth it.

View from cable car

View from cable car

Unfortunately, it’s our last point as time is not permitting
us. our few points were left mainly Rumtek Monastery.

We are also very tired so we decided to go back to hotel and
have some rest and then back to MG Road in evening for dinner & shopping.

MG Road Entry

After some rest we left for MG Road at 7:30 PM, this place
is main area in Gangtok, but our hotel is very far away from it. (this is the
disadvantage of booking online, we came to know that in lesser amount we can
get rooms in MG Road or nearby area).

Durga Puja Pandal

Shopping time

MG Road is very happening place in town. This was Navratri
time (Durga Puja) in this part of India Durga Puja is more important than
Diwali and it also become’s crowded during these days, so our plan to not visit
in peak season is almost failed.
But still this place is very enjoyable, main thing is that vehicles are not
allowed inside MG Road area it’s no vehicle zone, so can just be relaxed and do
your shopping here.

Street Market & food stall

First we had some Hot N Spicy Momos, it was very delicious,
then we bought some artifacts & we also want to buy very famous Temi Tea
which is specialty of Sikkim, for that Golden Tips is the best Place on MG
Road.

Famous Golden Tips

After roaming in market now we felt hungry, we wanted to
have pure veg, food so someone suggested us to visit Parivar Restaurant,

Parivar Restaurant, Gangtok

we
decided to visit there, this place was very popular among tourists, we saw so
many people here. Food and ambiance is OK but service is very slow & rates are
on higher side. Overall it’s good place. While returning we found our same taxi
driver so he dropped us to our hotel as he was also staying nearby. We end up our day
in bed.

Day 4

The most Awaited day, today we are going for combine visit
at Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake & New Baba Mandir,

Sudden change in weather

But weather was not in our
favor today, it was raining from morning we are just worried about our trip was not ruined. We wear our regular
cloths because we planned to get winter jackets on hire on the way. We have to
reached to main taxi stand,

at taxi Stand

our seats were booked by our hotel owner @ Rs.850/-
per person on sharing basis (it was Tempo Traveler in that they carry 10
Persons),

Get set goooo...

it’s still raining we started by around 10:00 AM. It was very cold
outside, our permits are with driver and we take halt several times for
checking, you don’t need to get down, your driver will take care of everything.

Weather is still bad.

it's getting worse

and more worse

Rain & cold is increasing as we getting on higher altitude. As we reached to our first halt place is called Kyongnosla at 10,682 ft. The Kyongnosla is a wildlife sanctuary too, located in East Sikkim, India. It is situated around the area adjoining the Tsomgo (Changu) lake along the Nathula Road. but this not good weather for it.

Small road side market of Kyongnosla

Shops on road side

it's dam cold out side

first we hired some jackets on rent @
Rs.100/- each. And had some hot tea & Biscuits. And proceeded towards
Nathula Pass.

Climbing up

This route is very scenic, but due to rain & fog we hardly see any thing Tsomgo Lake is on the way to Nathula but we visit here while return. we just halt on a point from where you can see entire lake and click some photos.

Top View of Tsomgo Lake

Smooookin....

Nathula Pass was a major corridor of passage between India
and Tibet before it was closed in 1962. Located around 56 kms from Gangtok at
an altitude of 14450 ft., the road to Nathula passes through the Tsomgo lake.
It is one of the highest motor able roads in the world and is richly surrounded
by alpine flora.A nearby place is Sherathang which has a well-developed Market Hub where Chinese trucks come for trade.

Sherathang Market

Truck Bay

Chinese trucks loading

On the way to Nathula, you will come across a place called Thegu which has an ATM. This is the highest altitude ATM in the world. while your driver verify's documents you can take cash or just check your balance and take the slip as souvenir. ( I am not able to do this due to long queue of soldiers).

Army Check post Thegu

way to ATM

World's Highest ATM at Thegu (13200 ft.)

After crossing Dagar Dwar we get more closer to Nathula Pass.

Passing Dagar Dwar

you are almost there

Fortunately rain was stooped, as soon as you reach on top area a Soldier come to you & give instructions about what to do & don't in here. you have to get down here & your vehicle is waiting downin parking area.

Add caption

Nathula Pass is
open for Indian nationals on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays.
The visitors have to get the permit to visit the place by applying to the
Tourism and Civil Aviation Department through a registered and recognized
Travel Agency. Foreign nationals are not allowed to visit Nathula. Photography
is strictly prohibited. You can take photos at parking area.

Nathula Pass Main Site

Nathula Pass

Bunkers

Photography from Parking area

On a clear day you can even see the road winding down the Chumbi valley. The fenced Indo-China border is also few meters away and you can see both Indian and Chinese soldiers guarding the border. The guards are friendly. A stairway leads to the border. There is 'no man’s land' here. After some 44 years of closure, the old Silk Route again reopened in July 2006 allowing limited trade between India and Tibet. on the way to top there is on cafe too, you can have some hot coffee and Momos here. you can also buy certificate of visit as a memory of your visit.

Certificate of visit

Before leaving for New Baba Mandir we have to wait here as it's time to pass Chinese vehicles back to chine so road is block for 30 mins.

Chinese vehicles Approaching

Chinese vehicle

Chinese vehicles Passing through Gate

After our visit at Nathula we proceed towards New Baba
Mandir, this “mandir” or shrine is dedicated to “Baba” Harbhajan Singh, who was
a soldier of the Indian Army. He died near the Nathula Pass in eastern Sikkim,
India. Two shrines have been built to show reverence to Baba Harbhajan Singh.
The old one has been built at the site of the bunker, where Baba Harbhajan was
posted during his tenure in the Indian Army. The new one has been built on
November 11, 1982. at close proximity from Tsomgo (Changu) Lake.

Road to New Baba Mandir

The shrine features three room structures. There is a large
portrait of Baba in the central room, which has been placed with other Sikh
Gurus and Hindu deity. At the right of the central room, there is the personal
room of Baba. The room has all essential household belongings, needed for daily
livelihood, starting from clothes, slippers, shoes to a clean sleeping camp
bed. Neatly ironed uniform and polished boots are also kept.

New Baba Mandir

New Baba Mandir

Central room of Baba Harbhajan Singh

Office of Baba Harbhajan Singh

Rest Room of Baba Harbhajan Singh

Soldier Distributing Prasad

Sign Board outside Temple

The bedsheets are
reportedly found crumbled each morning and the boots become muddy by evening.
There is another small room, which is used as office cum storeroom. The room is
filled with unused slippers, water bottles, toothbrushes and other items that
are offered to Baba. The salary of Major Harbhajan Singh has not been stopped
and he is also granted his annual leave. There is a strong belief that water kept
in the shrine of Baba gains healing property and turns into sacred water that
can cure all possible ailments. This blessed water is needed to be consumed
within 21 days and in this period, no family members of the ailing person is
supposed to have non-vegetarian food. It is also believed that the slippers
kept in the temple, help to cure gout and other foot problems. Followers, who
cannot reach to Baba’s temple, are allowed to send letters to Baba, which are
opened by Baba’s associates.Just opposite to temple you can find one cafe & Survivor shop too where you can have some hot coffee & Cakes, Biscuits & Momos, and buy some gifts. Washrooms also available here.

cafe & Survivor shop

at a small distance there is a small water fall & giant Shiva statue is located you can also visit there if time permits.

water fall & giant Shiva statue

It is believed that Baba Harbhajan Singh guards the
international boundary between India and China, over the last three decades and
he is accomplishing this task alone. Even the Chinese army also confirms that
they have noticed a human figure, guarding the border at night, riding on a
horse. It is also said that Baba Harbhajan Singh foretells any dangerous
activity on the border through the dreams of the fellow army men and safeguards
the force.

Welcome Sign at Tsomgo Lake

Now it’s time to visit Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake
which is perched within mountains at an altitude of 12,400 ft. Located at
Gangtok – Nathula Highway only 37 kms. from Gangtok, the Changu Lake is one of
the most spectacular landscapes of Sikkim. The lake is highly revered by the
local Buddhists and Hindus as a sacred lake. With a depth of around 48 feet and
spreading over 1 kilometer, the magnificent Changu Lake romances with its
picturesque surrounding. The water of the lake comes from the melting of the
snow of its surrounding mountains, which is why, this lake never dries up. In fact,
Changu Lake is also the place of origin of Lungtse Chu River. This azure
blue lake remains completely frozen during winter.

at Tsomgo Lake

This oval-shaped deep blue lake is a treat to the eye from a
distance. You would get the best panoramic view of the lake after crossing it
on the way to New Baba Mandir. During winters the lake remains wrapped in
ice, along with its surrounding region. The spectacle is truly breathtaking.
The lake remains frozen up to April. In late spring, the lake is surrounded
with wild flowers, which create a riot of colors. The rhododendrons, blue and
yellow poppies, various species of primulas, irises create a breathtaking
effect. The journey to Changu Lake from Gangtok is also quite enchanting, where
you can view a number of waterfalls on route.

A small bridge just at the entrance of the lake will take
you to a viewpoint cum cafeteria, from where you can view the complete lake and
its surrounding mountains.

Changu Baba Mandir (Shiva Mandir)

Idol of Shiva inside Temple

There is also a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
built at the lakeside. You can trek along the lakeside in deep snow during
winter or even take Yak rides along the coast of the lake.

You can enjoy Yak ride

Market area

There is a small
rustic market before entering the Changu Lake which sells yak cheese, trinkets
and local curios to the tourists. Adventure seekers can also enjoy trekking at
the surrounding Kyonqnosla Alpine Sanctuary. You would also get snow boots and
gumboots on hire from here. There are few eateries too selling Momos and tea in
this area.

Story of Tsomgo Lake

Changu Lake is shrouded in myths and legends. It is said
that in ancient times, the Lamas (Buddhist Saints) used to predict the future
by observing the lake’s color. If the water of the lake had a dark tinge, they
predicted the future to be dark and gloomy, full of unrest. The faith-healers
of Sikkim, popularly known as Jhakhris also visit this lake during
Guru Purnima to offer prayers. But humans are not the only visitors to this
lake; it is also home to Brahmini Ducks and a favorite stopover to other
species of migratory birds.

In return we stop at same point to return our Jackets and
from some refreshment, we are very hungry now, we head some Hot Maggi &
bread Omelet which feels like haven, you can also find liquor here, infect in
Gangtok you can find liquor in almost all big or small hotels, due to extreme
cold weather. But just consume as a medicine.

Clear Sky & dry Roads

As we are getting near to town the sky was clear and dry, we
returned by around 6:00 PM, MG Road was nearby so we plan to stay there in
market & do some time pass. MG road is very attractive place you like to
visit here again n again. After having our dinner, we returned to hotel.

Day 5

It’s our last in Gangtok we have to check-out by 10:00 AM
and proceed to Darjeeling (97 Kms. Approx), actually we spent very less time
Sikkim there are so many places to be discover here, but we are in lack of
time. If you are planning to visit Sikkim, please keep at least 5-6 days for
Sikkim only. It’s very beautiful place with very nice n friendly people. I
am not mentioning my hotel's name here because I am not satisfied with it, first I
thought that owner is co-operative, but he was looting type person, first of all
rooms are very costly according to location, rooms are also not well
appointed. (this owner is from west Bengal)

But our driver is very co-operative & friendly he is
coming with us to Darjeeling to drop us. his Name is Binod, (cell : 8436105773) he is local guy, as
you know on day 1 we missed our visit to Rumtek Monastery, Binod promise us
to take their first and then Darjeeling without any extra charge. After having
breakfast at hotel We started by 8:30 AM.

Main entry Gate

We reached Rumtek within 1 hour This monastery is located in Rumtek, a place which is 23kms away from Gangtok
town and in the opposite mountain. So if you visit Rumtek, there are vantage
points from where you get amazing sights of the whole Gangtok town on the
opposite hill. Admission fee is Rs. 10/- per person. Rumtek Monastery is open
from 6am to 6pm. There is a pay & use toilet for both ladies & gents
outside the main entrance and few steps down.

uphill walk with foreign nationals

Taxis will drop you below from
where there is a fairly long and steep uphill walk to reach the main entrance
of the monastery.(Keep your Valid ID for Checking) As you walk along the pathway, you will find a few stalls
selling souvenir & gift items, plus tea and snacks like veg momos,
samosas, chips etc.

stalls selling souvenir & gift items

Most importantly, they all have benches where you can sit
and rest your legs as you sip a cup of tea.

Search Results

prayer wheels on the way to Rumtek Monsatery

Rumtek monastery is one
of the largest in Sikkim and belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists which
originated in the 12th century in Tibet. The architecture of the monastery is
one of the finest in the world and resembles the original one in Tsurphu,
Tibet.

Main Gate to Monastery

The main building of the Rumtek monastery is three storied. The
ground floor of the main monastery building has a large prayer hall. The hall
has large hand painted and intricate wall murals, thankas, silk paintings and
statues.

Rumtek Monastery

Main door to Monastery

You won't be allowed to use camera inside though. The first floor is
where the 16th Karmapa lived. The top floor has a terrace and a small stupa.
There is a large courtyard in front of the main monastery building. The
courtyard has few other buildings surrounding it where the monks live.

Monks at Monastery

Just outside and at the backside a stairway leads to
the Nalanda Institute of Higher Buddhist Studies. You will find a huge
painting of Lord Buddha here. And just in front of the institute building,
there is a lawn from where you get a lovely view of Gangtok township in
opposite hill.

Way to Nalanda Institute & Golden Stupa

towards Golden Stupa

Golden Stupa Entry

Just opposite to the Nalanda Institute is a building where
you will find the Golden Stupa of 16th Karmapa which is made of pure gold. No
camera allowed here for obvious reasons. Actually the monastery also houses
other precious items like the Black Hat (known as the Vajra Mukut) which is
studded with gold, diamond, ruby and many other precious stones. It was
presented to the 5th Karmapa in 15th century by the then emperor of China. No
wonder you will find so many sentries at Rumtek Monastery right from its
entrance and all over. On opposite to Monastery there is open terrace area, from where you can get great view of Gangtok.

Great view but bit cloudy

near main gate you can feed pigeons on your hand

We spend around an hour here and proceed to Darjeeling, both
destination on different mountains first we get down from Gangtok and then
again hill climb for Darjeeling. Teesta river will follow you on the way.

Me & Binod

Down hill from Sikkim

Passing through Rangpo

WB - Sikkim State check point

Lush green route

Rishi Bridge on Teesta River

Uphill for Darjeeling

Tea Gardens on hilltop

Tea Collectors at hill top

Awesome route

Passing through some beautiful villages

where we halt for lunch break

This
entire route is very beautiful & scenic, we took our lunch break at around
2:30 PM on one small unknown village, it was on hill side place with nice view
& food. As you see a narrow gauge railway track you realize that now you are near to Darjeeling.

Entering via Jalaphar Cantt

Ghoom

Ghum Railway Station

About to reach

Our Dream Destination

We reached Darjeeling by 5:00 PM. We already booked our hotel
Darjeeling, but we don’t same experience like Gangtok so we asked Binod if
knows someone in here, fortunately one of his friend is in here, he called him
us n he there to receive us he asked for our budget we tell him that we are
looking for good room in market are with low budget, he take us to a Hotel
Tarang (Mr.Raju Cell : 9832306512) Just near to Darjeeling Railway Station, Room is small but clean and
cozy with small TV @ Just Rs.800/per night, I immediately done it. It’s now
time to say good bye to Binod as have to travel back to Gangtok again. We
cleared his payment & he left.

After completing Check-in, we decided to visit DHR (Darjeeling
Heritage Railway) which is just opposite to our hotel. I can’t describe you my
feelings when we saw a Mini Steam Engine and 2 coach train on narrow gauge line
it’s all like fairy tale. I click so many photos here.

Darjeeling Railway Station

DHR Loco Shed

Engine Turn Table (not operational)

Coal Filling in Steam Engine

Steam Engine looks like Fairy Tail

Real Heros who kept DHR Alive

DHR was declared a World
Heritage site by UNESCO in 1999, only the second railway to have this honor
bestowed upon it. Now days they operate Daily Joy Rides from Darjeeling to
Ghoom & Back via Batasia Loop, it takes around 2 hours for each ride. cost
of ride is for Steam Engine Rs. 1100/- per person & for Diesel Engine Ride
Rs. 650/- PP.

Joy Ride Diesel & Steam

DHR Arriving

DHR

About DHR

About DHR

you can also book your tickets online through irctc app or
website. For more info on DHR you can visit here : http://darjeeling.gov.in/dhr.html
after spending some time we decided to visit Chowrasta. The Chowrasta or the Mall is the heart of Darjeeling town. Located on top of Nehru Road, Chowrasta was very popular
place among tourists for fun, eat & shop. This place is also like MG Road,
no vehicles allowed here, it wat just 10-15 mins walking away from Railway
station so we decided to go there by walk. It was very live place, This is where some of the old and heritage stores are lined up on one side, and there is open view on the other with many pine trees all around. If you want to feel the real vibe of Darjeeling, watch people and activities, this is the place to come.as you enters shops on
both sides, we saw a small group of boys is playing music & singing songs.
this narrow lane will lead you to big open ground.

Way to Chowrasta

Narrow street leads you to Chowrasta

group of boys is playing live music

Chowrasta Circle

Chowrasta

Durga pooja Pandal

Durga Devi Idol

As this was Durga Puja
Period we saw a huge pandal (Tent) in the ground with very beautiful Idol of Durga
Mata, we took darshan & spend some time in nearby area, there are some very
old shops here like Habib Malik & Sons, Golden Tips also.

Famous Shops at Chowrasta

Then we visited Glenary's Restaurant, it has been a landmark of Darjeeling since many years, The Glenary's Bakery and Cafe is located at the ground floor. Here we tried some donut, pastry and Puff, its very testy & Reasonable too.

Glenary's Restaurant

donut, pastry and Puff

Warm & Cozy Ambiance

then my son wants to have some pizza so we plan to visit Pizza Hut.

At Pizza Hut

As we finished it we
went back to our room and meet Mr. Raju Owner of Hotel Tarang, he is very
co-operative man, we ask him about sightseeing for next day, he immediately arranges
our next day trip as one of friend is doing the same. We booked our full day
sightseeing at Rs.2500/- in Santro. Then we go to sleep as next day
have to wake-up by 3:00 AM.

Day 6

We wake-up by 3:00 and & get ready by 3:30 AM, car is
waiting for us outside. It’s very Dark & cold outside,

Early morning Dive

on hill top full traffic& women selling coffee

our first point is Tiger Hill Tiger
Hill is located 11km (6.8 miles) from Darjeeling town and above Ghoom. It's the
highest point in Darjeeling hills at an altitude of 8482 feet (or 2590 meters).
At sunrise, the peaks of Kangchenjunga are illuminated before
the sun is seen at lower elevations. The best season to see the dazzling snow
covered peaks as the sun rises is between Mid-October to December. March to
April is also a good time.

For sunrise, you will need to start by 3:30 am in the
morning so that you reach by 4.15 am. Some taxi drivers will insist that you
start even earlier. There is a reason why. As you reach close to the summit,
particularly during the high season there would be a long queue of cars.
Hundreds of tourists come here every day for the sunrise view during the high season.
As a result, you may have to walk uphill quite a bit as your vehicle may be
parked much below the top.

We choose our spot

Coffee shop & winter ware stalls on hill top

There is not proper place to view the sun and Mountain Range,
I planned to capture Time lapse of sunrise and find my place according to that
but it’s very dark outside. We saw some local womans selling hot coffee here,
it’s very energizing drink in this cold morning. Remember, Darjeeling's weather
can change anytime. The fog and the mist play a mystical game here all the
time. They can come from nowhere and put a white blanket all around. You can't
predict that. In fact, looking at the weather and the sky from Darjeeling Town
is almost no indication of how the weather might be at Tiger Hill. Cloud and
fog in this area lie at various levels of the mountains, sometimes they may be
above you, other times you may be above them. So no one can guarantee a perfect
sunrise view from Tiger Hill or for that matter from anywhere in Darjeeling.

no sign of sun after sunsrise

Crowd on hill top

view of Darjeeling from top

no sign of Kangchenjunga just fog & clouds

This is the view for which people come here

Today is not our day, after waiting for long two hours we
capture nothing but the fog. even we not able to see sunrise due to fog &
clouds. we came down hill for our next stop Ghoom Monastery, on the way you have to face heavy rush.

Place is crowded by people & vehicles

with local vendors on road side

Our next stop is Ghum or Ghoom Monastery is the popular name
of the Yiga Choeling Monastery located at Ghoom at an elevation of 8,000 feet,
8 km from Darjeeling in the State of West Bengal in India.

Main building

It is the first ever
Tibetan Buddhist monastery to be built in the Darjeeling region. The monastery
follows the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. There is a 15-feet
high statue of "Maitreya Buddha" (Coming Buddha) in the monastery.

Maitreya Buddha" (Coming Buddha) in the Ghoom monastery

Mesmerizing Statue of Buddha

It
contains images of Buddha’s disciples, Chenrezi and Chongapa.The Monastery
belongs to the Gelukpa or the Yellow Hat sect and was constructed in 1850 by
the famous Mongolian monk and astrologer, Sokpo Sherab Gyatso.

the Gelukpa or the Yellow Hat sect

Photography is
allowed here.

Stupa at Ghoom Monastery

Small Survivor shop inside Monastery

You can also rotate giant Prayer wheel here

Final Shot outside Ghoom Monastery

Then we visit he Batasia Loop (Entry Rs.15) is
a spiral railway created to lower the gradient of ascent of
the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Ticket Wondow

Batasia Loop was commissioned in 1919
because it was an engineering requirement for the toy train to be able to
handle a steep gradient. Just after Ghoom (which is the highest railway
station) there is a sharp fall as the toy train moves towards Darjeeling. There
was no way the toy train could negotiate such a drastic fall of about 140ft
unless there was a way to somehow reduce the gradient of the slope.

way in

You
can walk along the track and complete the loop for yourself. During this time there is no trains on track, so local vendors stall every where.

Stalls near railway track

Here you take the many pathways in the garden and walk around, enjoy the
many flowers and the surroundings.

Eco Garden in Batasia

There is also an Eco Garden in Batasia.
It provides a lot of information about organic farming and plantations in
Darjeeling. At the center of the Batasia Loop is the War Memorial.

War Memorial

This
was opened in 1995 to commemorate the Gorkha soldiers of the Darjeeling Hills
who sacrificed their lives in various wars after India's independence. At an
elevated platform there is a Cenotaph and a statue of a soldier paying
homage. You will need to take the same walkway back for the exit. As you
come out, you will see a small market area. If you arrive early in the morning,

Food & tea stalls outside

right outside there are temporary stands put up where the locals sell snack
items like the hot Tea Samosas, Momos etc. after having good amount of
Breakfast we continued.

Our next stop was The Rock Garden (Entry Rs.10) is also
known as the Barbotey Rock Garden which is located some 10kms (or 6.2
miles) away from Darjeeling town in a valley down below.

Way to down hill

Passing through Orange Valley Tea Estate

Ganga Maya is another
park area located further down. As you take the right turn from the main Hill
Cart Road of Darjeeling towards the Rock Garden,

Passing through a Village

you know that you are in for a
nature's treat. In about 25 minutes, this narrow winding downhill road descends
by several thousand feet to a valley where the rock garden is located.

Way to Rock Garden

As you walk towards the garden, you will know why this is
called Rock Garden. Because the entire garden area has been created by cutting
rocks at different levels and making terraced seating arrangements at various
levels.

Water fall at Rock Garden

Stairs to up hill

There is a wonderful waterfall that comes all the way from the top
and over the rocks to down below.

Path to uphill is full of falls

You will need to keep climbing stairs, go up
the ramp and cross small bridges across the rocks to reach up to the top. From
the bottom, it's not possible to see the point where this water flow is
entering the garden.

Awesome Falls

The climb all the way up may be tiring for some. However,
there are beautiful flower gardens, trees and shrubbery at all levels along
with nice seating arrangements.

Highest Fall

So you can rest and relax, enjoy the views
around as you go up. But you need extra Stamina here, because there is too much walk here.

About 3kms further down is the Ganga Maya Park, (Entry
Rs.15) which is another relatively new addition to the special attractions.

Entry Gate & Ticket Counter

Once you enter the premises of the park, you can find yourself at the foothill
of mountains that come from all sides. Yes, this is a valley surrounded by
hills and having a natural water stream flowing through it.

at foothill of mountains

Long walk

Boating in Lake

Bridge over lake

Water Passing from lake

There are
beautiful small bridges built over the stream from where you can look at the
crystal clear water flowing over the rocky bed. There is a small lake where one
can also enjoy boating on paddle boats (Fees Rs.50 for 2 seater & Rs.80 for 4 seater).

Enjoyed our Boat ride

Small fall in Boating Lake

At the end of the park,
there is also a lovely fountain. If you walk around the park, there are
wonderful flower gardens, trees and shrubs all across.

Flowers all around

Building near Lake

It's easy to get to one
of the many large rocks that are sitting right on the stream. After boating we
start our onward journey.

While going on uphill we stop at Orange Valley Tea Estate
for some photography in traditional tea picker costume (Rent Rs.50).We also brought some Organic tea from here.

traditional tea picker costume

Experience Tea Picking & can buy some tea from here

Say Cheese !!

Our next destination was Zoo & HMI, the zoo is
officially known as the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, but more
commonly as Darjeeling Zoo. The combined ticket is Rs. 50/- (subject to change). There is also additional charge for taking cameras inside (Rs. 10/-).

Main Entry Gate

Ticket Counter Zoo & HMI

Some of the highlights of the zoo includes the
conservation programs where you can see vulnerable and endangered high altitude
Himalayan animals like the Tibetan Wolf, Red Panda, Snow Leopard etc. all in
semi natural habitats. And then there are Siberian Tigers, Yaks and lot
more. As you enter through the main gate, you will see some curio and
souvenir shops on the left. And right in front is the Aviary, a huge circular
birds cage. You can see different kinds of birds inside including Rose Ring
Parakeets, Hill Mynas, Ring Necked Pheasants, Blue Gold Macaw and more. The
striking ones are the two very large size birds of yellow and blue combination
Macaws.

Guide Map of Zoo

Out Ticket of Zoo & HMI

Central Area

Large Bird Cage

Fortunately we spotted Red Panda

Back Bear Resting

Royal Bengal Tiger

As you walk along, high up on your right you can see the cages
made out of iron nets. That's the upper section of the zoo. In about 75 meters
from the main gate, you will see a road on the right which is going uphill.
That's the one to take to see the upper section. Otherwise you can keep going
straight to visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and cover
this area on your return.

Way to HMI

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was built as a tribute to
Tenzing so that he could impart his skills to all those who pursued climbing
activities in the Himalayas. Tenzing was the first Director of field
training in HMI. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is now a complex of various
activities and units. It is said to be a destination by itself and a pilgrimage
for all the climbing enthusiasts.

Main Building at HMI

Tenzing Memorial Rock

It comprises of a residential school for
mountaineering students, Swiss style houses for the Sherpa trainers, a
well-stocked museum with whole host of mountaineering artifacts and many
expedition displays, a restaurant & a tea parlor, a souvenir shop and
more.

Few distance ahead on the Lebong Cart Road for practical
training of rock climbing. you can have reached at Tenzing Rock, a
gigantic natural rock in Darjeeling is named after Tenzing Norgay.

Tenzing Rock

First my son tried it

My wife also did it

The man who
created history by climbing the Everest first time along with Edmund Hillary in
1953. This rock can be used by amateur climbers or even tourists for
climbing. However, one needs to take help of guides and pay some nominal fees
Rs.50. The gradient of the right face is gentle and surface is easier for
climbing. You must try this. After clicking some pix we move ahead.

Our next destination was Darjeeling Ropeway, one of the best
ways to experience the panoramic views that Darjeeling is so famous for, is by
taking a ride on the ropeway. It's also called the Rangeet Valley Cable Car
because of the spectacular view of the valley around the river Little Rangeet.

Main Entry Gate

Ticket Counter

Queue for Cable car

You will need to board the cable car from Singamari which is some 3km away from
Darjeeling Chowk Bazaar. As you ride the cable car. It takes up to 4-6
persons in a gondola. From an altitude of about 7,000ft you will go downhill to
about 6,000ft at Tukvar. You can get off at Tukvar, enjoy the view of lush tea
gardens and get back. The total round trip is about 5kms. The cable car moves
quite slow and takes about 15-20 minutes each way plus stoppage time at
destination.From the cable car you can get breathtaking view of the valley below, see the spread of lush green tea gardens on the hill slopes, flowing rivers, forests, waterfalls. Tickets Rs. 175/- per person (to & fro). Child (3-8 years) is Rs. 80/-. During peak season you can find very long queue here.

Start Point

Cars on the way

Cars revealing from clouds

Enjoy great View

Base Station

Small Park at Base Station

again line up for return journey

It’s almost 5:00 PM now & sun is about to set & one more destination were left.

Japanese Temple &
Peace Pagoda, was located near main town so we need to reach here before dark,
& unfortunately we stuck in a traffic due to Durga Puja Festival
Procession, but somehow we managed it, but sun was sat now.

The temple is also known as the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist
Temple. The two storied white building was built in a traditional Japanese
style in the year 1972. Close to the temple is the Peace Pagoda that
showcases four avatars of Lord Buddha.

Way to Pagoda

Buddha Temple

As you enter the temple, there is picture of the founder
Fujii Guruji. There is also a model of Buddha suggesting that it's a Buddhist
religious temple.

Main Hall

Walk up the wooden stairs and you will reach the large prayer
room upstairs. The prayer timings are from 4:30am to 6am in the morning and
again from 4:30pm to 6:30pm in the evening. If you can time it right, you can
also join the prayers and get an opportunity for introspection and feel the
divine peace the temple offers. we had that opportunity. In the prayer
room you will see the present Guruji or the chief priest offering the prayers,
beating a huge drum (also known as Ho-ko) from which a reverberating sound
originates that fills the entire temple premises.

prayer room upstairs

The humming sound and the
chants add to the solemn atmosphere. As you enter the room, you will be invited
to sit and join the prayer. A small drumming pad and a stick will be given to
you so that you too can drum in the same rhythm. I was amazed how such a small
pad too can generate similar resonating sound. You can leave anytime you
want. On your exit, you will be offered small sweet balls that represent the
deity's blessings. While photography is allowed inside the temple, it is
prohibited in the prayer room when the prayer is going on.

Close to the temple some 100 yards away is the Peace Pagoda.
the very appearance of the Peace Pagoda is an embodiment of Lord Buddha that
radiates peace and non-violence.

Peace Pagoda

Peace Pagoda

It purifies the land as well as the mind and
soul of the people. The Peace Pagoda here showcases four avatars of Buddha.
This is the tallest free standing structure in Darjeeling. Its height is 28.5
meters and diameter is 23 meters. As you climb up the stairs in the Pagoda, you
will see two concrete models of lions on two sides at a lower level. The
avatars of Buddha are all large statues carved in the walls and polished in
gold color. The Peace Pagoda was designed by Dr. M Ohka of Japan and took three
years to construct. You will see the four avatars of Buddha during the
Parikrama, that includes Buddha's postures such as Birth, Meditation, Sermon and Death.

Birth (Janma)

Meditation (Dhyana)

Sermon (Dhamma Prachar)

Death (Nirvana)

From the top of the Pagoda, if you lucky you get a panoramic views of Darjeeling landscape including the Kanchenjunga range.

Our sightseeing tour was ended here, we extremely tired due
to walking every ware.

Today was our last day in Darjeeling, we want to visit
Chowrasta again & do some shopping, Chowrasta Market is not so far from Peace Pagoda, so we
start walking and within 15mins we reached there. We brought some Gifts & souvenir for our relatives. Now we are very hungry, my son wants
some Chinese food today & my wife wants some south Indian. So first we went to
Hasty Tasty famous veg Restaurant on Chowrasta,

Hasty Tasty

Food was good here but service
is very slow, then we went to some local stalls near Chowrasta Circle operated by women
they make fresh n hot Noodles, Momos etc. We had some food there, its tasty, so many people here.

local stalls

local stalls

Finally, we end up our day in Bed…

Day 7

Today we are leaving from Darjeeling, at the time of
planning this trip I booked our return journey through Toy train from
Darjeeling to Siliguri we Have to check-out by 10:00 AM and train is at 10:30
AM, we order some breakfast in our hotel (Tasty Puri Bhaji) and visited nearby
temple of Durga Devi “Dhir Dham”, and went to Railway Station to do some
inquiry of our train.

Entry Gate

Main Temple

After looking here and there, I was unable to locate my
train on platform I went to Inquiry Window, I was shocked when I come to know
that the train was canceled due to derailment.

at Station

We are very excited for this
scenic journey, but our entire plan was flop. Now we have to find some alternative
for return journey, we went to taxi stand and asked for Siliguri, there many
Privet & sharing taxis available. We took Sharing Taxi at Rs.250/- Per
head, and reached Siliguri by 5:30PM. This Route is also very Scenic, Our train is from NJP so we hire an auto
upto NJP.

Taxi to Siligiri

Beautiful Route

Sonada Station On the way

Famous Railway Station "KURSEONG"

KURSEONG Town

From NJP we were going to Sealdah to meet one my friend, our
train was on 8:15PM and next day reached by 8:30,

Day 8

We meet him and spend few
hours with him and proceed to Airport for our flight to Mumbai.Within 3 hours
we at our home, overall it’s a great Journey, I Hope you liked it. and may be helpful to you during your trip.Cost given here in above is as per year 2016, subject to change.for any other assistance you can mail me on travelers.rti@gmail.comThanks